12 November 2024 · A sentence from the teachings of Rav Kook

Aspiration and Reality

„"Do not be overly righteous, and do not overly justify yourself," said Kohelet.”From Rishon LeYafo, 38

The Rav distinguishes between our need to aspire to the very best there is, and the recognition of reality. In aspiration we look as high as possible – "a person is obligated to say: when will my deeds reach the deeds of my forefathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob" – but we must also look reality straight in the eye, know our capabilities, and act accordingly; otherwise reality is liable to ground us and cause disappointment and harm.

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The RighteousReflection
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